Chapter 1:
The march of 6,000 Macedonian troops, upon horseback and phalanx formation shook the ground and walls of the city Patavium. Its residents, garrison of 6,400 soldiers, and commanding generals Marcus Julius and Flavius Elagabalus have been besieged for over 3 months by the Macedonian army commanded by the well-known victors Aristoxenus of Thessalonica and Amopaon of Piraeus. This day the Roman army will leave the gates to contest the conquerors of many cities, and the killers of many. The Macedonian army sets up on top of a steadily sloping hill, with trees for their 300 archers and 200 peltasts to take cover behind.
Amopaon turns to Aristoxenus, "General Aristoxenus, our archer columns are far too close to the back of our phalanxes, and if we shall keep this formation then during the confrontation surely we will have losses from our own volleys."
Aristoxenus replies, "My dear Amopaon, how long have we fought together? How many enemies have we slain side by side? I would think your trust of my decisions would be quite strong by now. I can promise you that the provisions in the line are fine, and will work well within the battle."
Amopaon says, "As you say general."

Aristoxenus commands, "Now my dear friend, go and enforce the north sector of our battle line, I shall enforce our southern sector."
Phalanx men take their positions side by side, along a mile long front line. Archers and peltasts are close behind them while taking cover in the trees, to conceal their presence as well too protect themselves from the return of enemy fire. The Roman forces have left the protection of their walled city Patavium, and the 6,400 men garrison are lining up to confront the Macedonian line. Marcus Julius sends the first three waves of infantry, consisting of Hastati and Principles, toward the Macedonian lines in 3 waves. Each waves consisting of roughly 650 men.
Aristoxenus yells to the phalanx men, archers, and peltasts, "Macedonians! We have fought together in many battles! Have I not only kept you alive, but also brought you victory and fame?! You fight today not only for the honor of yourself, but also for the honor of your family, and your home country of Macedonia! Fight well, fight till you can fight no more, keep your blades blooded, and your spirits high! The gods are with us today, as long as you remain brave and courageous; I can promise that the gods will bring you home alive, and to see the days after this battle! Be brave and fight well men...heroes of Macedonia!"